Spine rehabilitation is challenging because the spine does not function like other parts of the body. A movement system analysis is essential. Modern science informs that the spine is a floppy stack of blocks that can buckle under a 10 lb. load. It is the muscle and fascia net support system that convert the floppy blocks into a controlled flexible column that acts as a foundation for all whole body movement. The spine movement support system stops motion while the shoulders and hips generate motion. Retraining recovers that functional relationship.

Resuming activities after an injury does not ensure recovery of this relationship. The absence of pain does not ensure the system is functioning adequately. Traditional assessment methods result in a hidden deficit. In many cases, this is the reason that the risk of re-injury is high. International spine expert Professor Stuart McGill states, “If your back pain is persistent but there are moments of ease, there is strong likelihood you can recover function without surgery or other medical intervention.”1

1McGill, S. (2015) Back Mechanic: The secrets to a healthy spine your doctor isn’t telling you. Gravenhurst, Canada: Backfitpro Inc.